(ANAHEIM, CA, 04/04/17) – The Greater Los Angeles Area office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-LA) today welcomed the passage of the California Religious Freedom Act (SB 31) and the California Values Act (SB 54) by the state Senate.

CAIR-California is co-sponsoring SB 31, sometimes referred to as the "Anti-Muslim Registry Bill." It prohibits a state or local agency from participating in a federal program to create a database based on a person's religious beliefs, national origin, or ethnicity for law enforcement or immigration purposes. It also prevents state and local law enforcement agencies from collecting information on the religious beliefs, practices, or affiliations of an individual except under certain circumstances.

SB 54, the California Values Act, keeps local and state resources from being used in deportations that separate families. The Values Act would also ensure that public schools, hospitals, libraries, and courts remain safe and accessible to all community members.

In a statement, CAIR-LA Executive Director Hussam Ayloush said:

“We welcome the passage of these bills and the protections they offer from discriminatory policies and practices unfairly targeting the Muslim and other minority communities. With the passage of these bills, California now sets the national standard for the protection of immigrants' and civil rights.”

These are some of the bills CAIR-CA will be advocating in favor of at our 6th Annual Muslim Day at the Capitol (MDAC). Register for MDAC here by April 15th and advocate for SB 54 and other bills in person.

Help us continue fighting against discriminatory policies. Your generous donations will ensure that we can continue to protect civil rights of Muslims and other targeted minorities.

CAIR is America's largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.